Give people a quick compliment. This will show them that you care and that you’re paying attention. Laugh a lot. Have open, relaxed, body language. Show people that you’re up for anything. Try to loosen up as much as possible. If you’re tense, your friends will be too. Cut loose!
Look at people with approval. Don’t make them think you’re condescending or judging them, or they’ll be much less likely to open up around you.
Do your best (or worst) impression of someone you all know, whether it’s a teacher or a coworker. Dance like a complete fool, pretending like you think you’re the best dancer ever. Sing the words to your favorite embarrassing song. Wear a ridiculous outfit, or a graphic tee with a silly message. Don’t be afraid to tell a corny joke or make a silly pun.
Say “yes” more. Instead of saying, “No, because…” try to embrace new challenges and try new things. Check out the last section for some ideas about fun things to do with your friends.
If you catch yourself saying something negative, try to counter your comment with two positive comments. If the people around you are bummed out, then you should work on trying to cheer them up instead of sinking down to their level. You don’t have to completely fake it and plaster a fake smile on your face if you had a terrible day. However, you should make an effort to be more positive if you’re just mildly annoyed or if you know that whatever is bothering you isn’t a big deal. [4] X Research source If you’re having a really bad day, just mention it and move forward with a positive comment. Say, “Today’s been rough, but I’m staying positive!”
Be subtle about it. If you’re with two people who feel like they have nothing in common, bring up a mutual interest that can help them bond. If you have two friends who don’t really get along, mention nice things about one person to the other that will make them more likely to get along. Help people bond by suggesting fun activities that everyone can agree on, such as bowling or playing Red Rover. The more fun the activity, the better.
An embarrassing moment they had as a kid A funny comedy sketch or show they saw recently A time when they really messed up or got in trouble A time when their first impressions were completely wrong The strangest place they ever visited
Don’t let other people complain too much, either. If other people around you are complaining too much, try to poke fun at the topic and steer the conversation in a more positive direction that is more likely to make people have fun.
Funny moments in your childhood A time when you made a fool of yourself A botched attempt at romance Your relationship with a friend or relative who always cracks you up A ridiculous summer job you once had A blind date that went poorly
Tell a funny story about something you did earlier that day that could make other people crack up. If you made an awkward comment, spilled coffee all over yourself, or made people stare at you for some reason, share the story all in good fun. If you trip or say something ridiculous by accident, don’t act all flustered, like you’re worried about looking like a weirdo. Instead, laugh at yourself and say something along the lines of, “There I go again!”
Even if the person is completely different from you, you should have fun and embrace those differences instead of just staying in your comfort zone. Every person has something to teach you and the more people you know, the more knowledge you can gain. Don’t ever look at a new person as not a worthy investment or a waste of your time. Just say hi, introduce yourself, and ask the person a question or two about himself. You can keep the tone lighthearted as you get to know the person better.
If the event makes you feel completely out of your comfort zone, whether it’s a pig roast or a poetry slam, then all the better. Think of all of the new and exciting people you can meet when you try something that feels completely different to you. Encourage your friends to be adventurous with you. Let them know that it’s fun to try something new.
Juggling Ballroom, hip-hop, or belly dancing Making pasta from scratch Taking an improv or theatre class Learn basic gymnastics tricks Learn card tricks Learn to read tarot cards
If you flail your limbs, belt out the lyrics to your favorite song, and toss your hair back, then other people will be having fun around you. Encourage people to come out on the dance floor with you. Drag your wallflower friends out and show them how much fun they can have.
Make a habit of accepting more invitations to do new things. Though you may have been turning down your friend who is an avid hiker or avid oil painter because you’ve never tried these activities, you should say yes and see how much you can do the next time. The next time you’re out at a party or social gathering, scan the crowd for the person you think you’ll have the least in common with. Introduce yourself to that person to see how much you’ll learn. If someone at a show asks for a volunteer, don’t be afraid to raise your hand. Get loud and crazy at your favorite concert. Wear a crazy outfit that makes you feel good. Sign up to sing your favorite karaoke song even if you’re tone deaf. Throw a ridiculous themed party. Be fun!
